Maccabi Tel Aviv Defeats Hapoel Jerusalem, Advances to League Cup Final

Maccabi Tel Aviv, the reigning league champions, defeated Hapoel Jerusalem, the outgoing winner of the Toto Cup, to advance to the tournament's final. The victory sets up a 'derby' final match for Maccabi Tel Aviv. This marks a reversal from the previous two encounters between the two top Israeli basketball clubs in the pre-season Toto Cup, where Hapoel Jerusalem had emerged victorious. Maccabi Tel Aviv's last win against Hapoel Jerusalem in this pre-season tournament was in the 2021 semifinals, secured by a dominant 25-9 fourth quarter. On Sunday, the Tel Aviv team again relied on a strong fourth quarter, outscoring Hapoel Jerusalem 29-17 to clinch the win. The game was not easy for Maccabi Tel Aviv, who entered the match on a significant losing streak, having suffered three consecutive defeats in the EuroLeague, marking their worst-ever European season start. In contrast, Hapoel Jerusalem had been on a positive run with three consecutive wins, including a decisive 21-point victory in the EuroCup. Despite a close first half, Maccabi Tel Aviv increased their intensity, and the difference in skill level between the teams became evident. The final score was 88-71 in favor of Maccabi Tel Aviv, marking the first 'Clasico' of the Israeli basketball season. Maccabi Tel Aviv, the record holders with 11 Toto Cup titles, returns to the final after a one-year absence. They eliminated last season's winner, who had hoped for a second consecutive final appearance but will now watch the final from home.